Introduction
Produced during the early 1970s, the Heuer Autavia GMT ref. 2446C GMT represents one of the most desirable and versatile variants within the legendary Autavia chronograph line. Originally introduced in the 1960s as a combination of “AUTomobile” and “AVIAtion,” the Autavia was designed as a professional timing instrument equally suited to motorsport and aviation use. The GMT version expanded upon this functionality by incorporating a 24-hour hand and rotating GMT bezel, allowing travelers and pilots to track multiple time zones simultaneously. Powered by the manually wound Calibre 724 movement, derived from the Valjoux 72 architecture, the ref. 2446C GMT combined robust chronograph performance with exceptional practicality. Featuring its classic compressor case, blue and red rotating bezel, and highly legible dial layout, the Autavia GMT remains one of the defining sports chronographs of the era.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Heuer
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Autavia GMT
Movement
Manual-wind Calibre 724
Reference
2446C GMT
Bracelet
Gay Frères double rice beads bracelet
Year
1970
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
The dial features a highly legible chronograph layout combined with a GMT hand and contrasting 24-hour bezel designed for tracking multiple time zones. Bold luminous markers and crisp white printing reinforce the watch’s aviation-inspired functionality while maintaining the balanced sporting aesthetic that defines the Autavia line.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 40mm stainless steel compressor-style case reflects the robust and highly functional design language that made the Autavia a favorite among racing drivers and pilots during the 1960s and 1970s. Paired with its rotating GMT bezel and original Gay Frères double rice beads bracelet, the watch perfectly captures the purposeful character and strong wrist presence of classic Heuer sports chronographs.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case remains well defined, with surface scratches and marks as expected of a watch of this vintage, while the case back retains legible engravings. The bezel ring is excellent, with a pleasing fade to the blue and red insert, which shows light scuffs and a couple of scratches. The dial remains excellent, while the hands remain very clean. It is fitted with a Gay Frères beads-of-rice bracelet with Heuer clasp showing light surface marks and light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 18 links and fits approximately an 8” wrist.
Please note: The watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.
Our Perspective
This was Heuer’s answer to Rolex’s famous “Pepsi” GMT and I must say, like an incredible cover song, this acknowledges the inspiration but marches to its own beat. A more serious tool watch than the Rolex, this reference is a chronograph, making it a more desirable watch for a pilot. So many similarities and so many differences make this model a strong contender for one of the 20th century’s best GMTs.
Patrick Parrish
Collector
